Cysts

Cysts are sac-like growths filled with a liquid or semi-solid substance that form in various parts of the body, including under the skin. Advanced Laser and Skin Cancer Center in Teaneck, New Jersey, performs thorough skin exams for patients with cysts, making sure they’re not cancerous and removing them when appropriate. To schedule a consultation for your cysts, call the office nearest you or book an appointment online today.

What are cysts?

Cysts are enclosed capsules filled with a fluid or semi-solid substance. They vary in size and develop on internal organs and under the skin. Most cysts are painless and harmless.

However, any abnormal growth that appears on the skin, including cysts, needs an evaluation. The Advanced Laser and Skin Cancer Center team performs skin exams on cysts to ensure they’re not cancerous.

What are common types of cysts that affect the skin?

Cysts come in many types. The location of the cyst determines the type. Common cysts that affect the skin include:

Acne cysts

Acne cysts are painful, pus-filled pimples.

Epidermoid cysts

Epidermoid cysts are small, slow-growing cysts filled with keratin (fibrous protein) that affect the face, head, neck, back, or genitals.

Sebaceous cysts

Sebaceous cysts usually develop from trauma to the sebaceous gland, the gland that produces the oil (sebum) for the skin. 

Pilonidal cysts

Pilonidal cysts form under the tailbone at the top of the buttocks from a combination of hormones, hair growth, and friction. Because of their location, pilonidal cysts are at risk of infection.

Pilar cysts

Pilar cysts are round, skin-colored bumps that usually form on the scalp from a protein buildup in the hair follicle. 

Mucus cysts

Mucus cysts result from blockages in the salivary glands from mucus, causing swelling in the lips or mouth. 

What happens during an evaluation for cysts?

Your dermatologist at Advanced Laser and Skin Cancer Center conducts a thorough skin exam when you come in with what sounds like a cyst. They review your medical history and symptoms and examine the growth.

They may also take a sample of the cyst to rule out cancer.

What are the treatments for cysts?

Treatment for cysts depends on the size, location, and symptoms. If you have a small cyst that doesn’t bother you, your dermatologist may recommend medical monitoring.

However, if your cyst becomes painful, grows larger, or affects your look, the dermatologists at Advanced Laser and Skin Cancer Center recommend surgical removal. When removing a cyst, the dermatologist takes out the entire cyst sac to reduce the risk of a recurrence.

Draining a cyst may ease symptoms, but the cyst may grow back. The most effective treatment for cysts is the surgical removal of the cyst sac.

To schedule an evaluation for your cysts, call Advanced Laser and Skin Cancer Center or book online today.